By Press Release
The Anambra State Government has outlawed the activities of popularly known “iron condemned” mongers.
The scavengers who usually shout ” iron kwandem” to announce their presence in any area have been accused and allegedly found neck deep in some criminal activities including kidnap, robberies and spying for hoodlums/criminals.
They have also been accused of abducting citizens, especially minors, outright stealing of properties.
The State Government’s action to ban their operations within the 21 local government councils in the state reportedly followed the increasing notoriety of their activities.
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Their nuisance effect to the citizens, the reports indicated, involved rampant theft and outright vandalization of critical infrastructures, any form of metal objects from public utilities, private properties without mercy or remorse.
A statement by the State Commissioner for Information, Paul Nwosu, said the scavengers’ actions have had a pronounced detrimental impact on the state’s economy and the country as a whole.
The government warned that individuals caught engaging in business with these scavengers will be arrested and prosecuted for receiving stolen property and/or indulging in illegal business.
Consequently, the government has mandated Ministry of Environment to register and certify legitimate scrap metal dealers henceforth to allow them to continue their business without hindrances.
The civil enforcers of state laws/policies – OCHA and SASA brigades have been tasked to enforce the ban and apprehend violators for prosecution.
Citizens are, therefore, advised to report activities of the scavengers to the authorities for prompt action.
The move, according to residents, was seen as a significant step towards maintaining law and order in the state and protecting public and private properties from theft and vandalism.
